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App To Help Blind On Tube

A "ground-breaking" trial has started to help blind and partially sighted people travel independently on London Underground.

Bluetooth beacons and a smartphone app are being used to help guide people through Pimlico Tube station, including down escalators and safely onto the platform.

The idea came from the Royal London Society for Blind People Youth Forum. Courtney Nugent, of the forum, said: "When I tested the app for the first time it was awesome - it made me feel free."

Isabel Dedring, deputy mayor for transport, said: "This is another great example of how London is leading the way in making public transport more accessible for everyone. These trials will hopefully prove that this sort of technology works in real life situations and will give people more freedom and confidence to travel around our capital."

Mark Evers, LU's director of customer strategy, said: "We are delighted to be able to support this trial, which has developed directly from the desire of young visually impaired people to get around on their own.

"While we have staff at all Tube stations to assist people whenever they need, we're always keen to see how technology and innovation can help open up and make our networks more accessible."